The Brigade attended quickly.
A fire was found in the back bedroom. It consisted of clothing and
the crew smelt paraffin. The fire was quickly put out and the police
notified of their findings.

The occupier, a Mr H. A. Smallbones who has since been identified
as the owner denied any involvement. He said he was in bed and had
called the brigade. He was instructed to leave the room as it was
to be examined by the police.
The next morning the room was found to have been cleared out and
the floor had been scrubbed.

Mr Smallbones was arrested the next day in London Street, Andover.
He told the Superintendent of Police he was 'not to blame'
and was reported to have said 'Now you've got prove it'.
He may also have claimed at his hearing that his money was missing
after being searched and locked up at the police station. In a press
report.The PC involved denied searching him or finding any money.

When he came before the local magistrates, there was much debate
at the hearing. There were six witnesses including W.G.Prior, a
sixteen year old boy who said "He had been asked to fetch
paraffin or Benzene from the shop".

There was a challenge by a Southampton barrister, of the police's
authority to bring the case.
This was considered and dismissed. The Mayor in the chair announced
that they had found there was a case to be answered. Bail was granted
and he was remand for trial.

The Assizes trial at Winchester proceeded with all the witnesses
being called including the Captain of the Brigade.

After a lengthy trial. Smallbones was convicted and sentenced by
Judge Lawrence. to five years in Winchester Prison.